“I have no need for good souls: an accomplice is what I wanted.”
- June 21, 1905 – April 15, 1980
- Born in France
- Philosopher, novelist, playwright
- He advocated existentialism and had a major influence on 20th century thought through works such as “Being and Nothingness” and “Nausea”
Quote
“I have no need for good souls: an accomplice is what I wanted.”
Explanation
In this quote, Sartre emphasizes the importance of authentic connection and active involvement over mere moral righteousness. The phrase “good souls” implies people who are perhaps well-intentioned, moral, or virtuous but detached from real action or engagement. Sartre contrasts this with the need for an “accomplice,” someone who is actively involved, willing to collaborate in shared actions and decisions, regardless of the moral or ethical judgments often attached to those actions. Sartre’s point here speaks to the idea that human relationships, and particularly the relationships that matter most, are not built on passive goodness or idealized notions of virtue, but on shared responsibility and the willingness to act together in the world.
For Sartre, authenticity is key, and authenticity involves making choices that are not just about personal morality but about taking action and shaping the world. In this sense, “accomplice” carries a certain existential weight—it suggests that true collaboration is about engagement with the world and with others, not merely passive adherence to ideals. An accomplice is someone who is active in the process, taking part in creating or transforming reality, even if it means engaging in actions that are morally or socially ambiguous.
In modern times, this quote can reflect the complexity of relationships and collective action. In a world filled with idealistic but often disconnected good intentions, Sartre challenges us to think about the value of working together with others in a more realistic and active sense. It speaks to the value of having partners in action—people who are willing to take risks, engage with the world authentically, and share responsibility. This perspective can apply in various contexts, from activism to professional collaboration, where meaningful progress requires not just good intentions but a willingness to act together and take responsibility for what is created, whether or not it aligns with traditional ideals of goodness.
